A More Perfect Union with Nii-Quartelai

This episode begins with Dr. Donta Morrison, author of Faithful and Forgotten, examining the role of the Black Church in shaping moral conscience—and what must change to move toward true inclusivity and human rights for all. Later, Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson joins the show to unpack the “Trump Effect” on LGBTQ+ Americans, what’s at stake for civil rights at the U.S. Supreme Court, and why these fights impact the future of democracy itself. Robinson also shares a message to the family of Renee Good. In the spirit of MLK’s call to justice, A More Perfect Union challenges listeners to engage the unfinished work of freedom.

On this episode of A More Perfect Union, powered by KBLA Talk 1580, Hunter College Associate Professor Dr. Calvin John Smiley breaks down the national headlines driving today’s political moment. Hear his take on a Venezuelan opposition leader suggesting Donald Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize, Trump’s renewed threat to invoke the Insurrection Act in response to Minneapolis protests, and what it all reveals about democracy and dissent. Dr. Smiley also reflects on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and its relevance in these turbulent times.

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by our international affairs panel for critical takeaways regarding the Venezuela invasion including Former U.S. Special Representative on Racial Justice & Diplomacy Desiree Cormier Smith and Bishop Joseph W. Tolton, Founder of Interconnected Justice. Bishop Tolton brings his expertise on uniting global racial justice movements and dismantling white supremacy to help us understand the broader implications of this conflict. Desiree brings her expertise in American diplomacy, human rights, and the innerworkings of international bodies like the United Nations.

Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to the "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners — We've got a lot to talk about!

Dr. Nii-Quartelai is joined by Wrestling Superstar Al Snow to discuss his new film "Learning You." Listen to Al’s powerful pivot from the ring to the screen as he advocates for families with autism and special needs.

Download the KBLA app to listen live and subscribe to the "A More Perfect Union" podcast powered by KBLA Talk 1580 to never miss an episode. Calling all leaders, learners, and listeners — We've got a lot to talk about!

Is SoCal Edison’s “Fast Pay” Program Truly Fast and Fair?

In Part Two of this conversation, Tavis Smiley, Chief Visionary Officer and flagship host of KBLA Talk 1580, and KBLA host James Farr lead an Altadena Town Hall on Thursday, November 6, 2025, where fire survivors are still left without answers to critical questions about SCE’s settlement fund.

Tavis and James are joined by fire victims, community leaders, and advocates, including panelists Martin Gordon, Chair of the Pasadena Community Coalition; Jacque Robinson-Bailey, Former Pasadena Vice Mayor; Toni Bailey-Raines, Community Organizer and host of Altadena Talks; and Dr. William Syms, Vice President of Student Services at West LA College.

If you or someone you know was affected by the Altadena/Eaton Canyon Fire and still needs answers, make your voice heard — contact Pedro Pizarro, President & CEO of Edison International, at [email protected] or call 626.302.2255 (press #1).

Your Voice. Your Questions. Your Community.